U.S. patent application number 14/824585 was filed with the patent office on 2016-02-25 for image forming apparatus, activation control method, and non-transitory computer-readable recording medium encoded with activation control program.
This patent application is currently assigned to Konica Minolta, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Konica Minolta, Inc.. Invention is credited to Masaya HASHIMOTO, Toshimichi IWAI, Hiroaki KUBO, Takeshi MORIKAWA, Tomoaki NAKAJIMA, Atsushi OHSHIMA, Toshihiko OTAKE, Takehisa YAMAGUCHI.
Application Number | 20160057304 14/824585 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55349368 |
Filed Date | 2016-02-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160057304 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
YAMAGUCHI; Takehisa ; et
al. |
February 25, 2016 |
IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, ACTIVATION CONTROL METHOD, AND
NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM ENCODED WITH
ACTIVATION CONTROL PROGRAM
Abstract
An image forming apparatus includes a main processor, a first
memory, a sub processor, and a second memory. The second memory
stores a snapshot that includes an executable program obtained by
loading one or more programs in the first memory. The main
processor switches from a drive mode to a stop mode. The sub
processor activates the main processor in response to any one of a
plurality of activation factors being detected, cuts off power in
response to an operation mode being switched to the stop mode, and
supplies power to the main processor and the first memory before
the main processor is activated. The main processor reads out a
snapshot associated with an activation factor from the second
memory and stores the snapshot into the first memory in response to
being activated by the sub processor.
Inventors: |
YAMAGUCHI; Takehisa;
(Ikoma-shi, JP) ; OHSHIMA; Atsushi;
(Amagasaki-shi, JP) ; OTAKE; Toshihiko; (Osaka,
JP) ; KUBO; Hiroaki; (Muko-shi, JP) ;
HASHIMOTO; Masaya; (Itami-shi, JP) ; IWAI;
Toshimichi; (Nara-ken, JP) ; NAKAJIMA; Tomoaki;
(Kobe-shi, JP) ; MORIKAWA; Takeshi;
(Takarazuka-shi, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Konica Minolta, Inc. |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
Konica Minolta, Inc.
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
55349368 |
Appl. No.: |
14/824585 |
Filed: |
August 12, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
358/1.14 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 1/00891 20130101;
H04N 1/00904 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04N 1/00 20060101
H04N001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 20, 2014 |
JP |
2014-167451 |
Claims
1. An image forming apparatus comprising: a main processor to
execute a program; a first memory to store an executable program
loaded by the main processor to execute a program, the first memory
being a volatile memory; a sub processor to activate the main
processor; and a second memory accessible by the main processor and
the sub processor, the second memory being a nonvolatile memory,
the second memory storing, for each of a plurality of sets
including one or more of a plurality of programs executable by the
main processor, a snapshot that includes an executable program
obtained by the main processor loading one or more programs
included in the set into the first memory, one of the main
processor and the sub processor executing an association step of
associating any one of a plurality of activation factors with each
of a plurality of snapshots respectively corresponding to the
plurality of sets, the main processor executing a mode switching
step of switching an operation mode from a drive mode in which
power is supplied to a stop mode in which power is not supplied,
the sub processor executing a power supply control step of
switching power supplied to the main processor and the first
memory, an activation factor detecting step of detecting any one of
a plurality of activation factors while power is not supplied to
the main processor, and an activation step of activating the main
processor in response to any one of the plurality of activation
factors being detected in the activation factor detecting step, the
power supply control step including a cutoff step of cutting off
power supplied to the main processor and the first memory in
response to an operation mode being switched to the stop mode in
the mode switching step, and a power recovery step of supplying
power to the main processor and the first memory before the main
processor is activated in the activation step, the main processor
further executing a recovery step of, in response to being
activated by the sub processor, reading out a snapshot associated
with the detected activation factor in the association step from
the second memory and storing the read snapshot into the first
memory.
2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
activation step further includes a notification step of notifying
the main processor of address information indicating a location
where the snapshot associated with the detected activation factor
in the association step is stored in the second memory, and the
recovery step includes a step of reading out a snapshot stored at
the location specified by the address information given from the
sub processor in the second memory and storing the read snapshot
into the first memory.
3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the
second memory stores a snapshot by default that includes an
executable program obtained by the main processor loading all of a
plurality of programs into the first memory, and the association
step includes a step of associating an activation factor except
predetermined one or more specific factors among the plurality of
activation factors with the default snapshot.
4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the
notification step includes a step of storing the address
information at a location defined by a boot program executed by the
main processor in response to being activated, in a storage area of
the second memory.
5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
main processor further executes a snapshot generating step of
storing an executable program obtained by loading at least one of
the plurality of programs in the first memory as a snapshot, into
the second memory.
6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
mode switching step includes a switching-after-execution step of
switching an operation mode to the stop mode after a process
defined by the detected activation factor is executed.
7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
main processor further executes an additional loading step of
loading one or more remaining programs not included in the snapshot
stored in the first memory, among the plurality of programs, into
the first memory, after a process based on the detected activation
factor is executed.
8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
sub processor includes a plurality of input terminals corresponding
to the plurality of activation factors, and the activation factor
detecting step includes a step of, in response to input of a signal
to any one of the plurality of input terminals, detecting an
activation factor corresponding to the input terminal receiving the
signal among the plurality of input terminals.
9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
sub processor further executes a sub mode switching step of
switching an operation mode to one of a normal mode and a power
saving mode in which power consumption is lower than in the normal
mode, and the sub mode switching step includes a step of switching
an operation mode to the power saving mode in response to an
operation mode of the main processor being switched to the stop
mode, and a step of switching an operation mode to the normal mode
in response to any one of the plurality of activation factors being
detected in the activation factor detecting step.
10. An activation control method performed in an image forming
apparatus, the image forming apparatus including a main processor
to execute a program, a first memory to store an executable program
loaded by the main processor to execute a program, the first memory
being a volatile memory, a sub processor to activate the main
processor, and a second memory accessible by the main processor and
the sub processor, the second memory being a nonvolatile memory,
the second memory storing, for each of a plurality of sets
including one or more of a plurality of programs executable by the
main processor, a snapshot that includes an executable program
obtained by the main processor loading one or more programs
included in the set into the first memory, the method allowing: one
of the main processor and the sub processor to execute an
association step of associating any one of a plurality of
activation factors with each of a plurality of snapshots
respectively corresponding to the plurality of sets; the main
processor to execute a mode switching step of switching an
operation mode from a drive mode in which power is supplied to a
stop mode in which power is not supplied; and the sub processor to
execute a power supply control step of switching power supplied to
the main processor and the first memory, an activation factor
detecting step of detecting any one of a plurality of activation
factors while power is not supplied to the main processor, and an
activation step of activating the main processor in response to any
one of the plurality of activation factors being detected in the
activation factor detecting step, the power supply control step
including a cutoff control step of cutting off power supplied to
the main processor and the first memory in response to an operation
mode being switched to the stop mode in the mode switching step,
and a power recovery step of supplying power to the main processor
and the first memory before the main processor is activated in the
activation step, the method further allowing the main processor to
execute a recovery step of, in response to being activated by the
sub processor, reading out a snapshot associated with the detected
activation factor in the association step from the second memory
and storing the read snapshot into the first memory.
11. The activation control method according to claim 10, wherein
the activation step further includes a notification step of
notifying the main processor of address information indicating a
location where the snapshot associated with the detected activation
factor in the association step is stored in the second memory, and
the recovery step includes a step of reading out a snapshot stored
at the location specified by the address information given from the
sub processor in the second memory and storing the read snapshot
into the first memory.
12. The activation control method according to claim 11, wherein
the second memory stores a snapshot by default that includes an
executable program obtained by the main processor loading all of a
plurality of programs into the first memory, and the association
step includes a step of associating an activation factor except
predetermined one or more specific factors among the plurality of
activation factors with the default snapshot.
13. The activation control method according to claim 11, wherein
the notification step includes a step of storing the address
information at a location defined by a boot program executed by the
main processor in response to being activated, in a storage area of
the second memory.
14. The activation control method according to claim 10, wherein
the method further allows the main processor to execute a snapshot
generating step of storing an executable program obtained by
loading at least one of the plurality of programs in the first
memory as a snapshot, into the second memory.
15. The activation control method according to claim 10, wherein
the mode switching step includes a switching-after-execution step
of switching an operation mode to the stop mode after a process
defined by the detected activation factor is executed.
16. The activation control method according to claim 10, wherein
the method allows the main processor to further execute an
additional loading step of loading one or more remaining programs
not included in the snapshot stored in the first memory, among the
plurality of programs, into the first memory, after a process based
on the detected activation factor is executed.
17. The activation control method according to claim 10, wherein
the sub processor includes a plurality of input terminals
corresponding to the plurality of activation factors, and the
activation factor detecting step includes a step of, in response to
input of a signal to any one of the plurality of input terminals,
detecting an activation factor corresponding to the input terminal
receiving the signal among the plurality of input terminals.
18. The activation control method according to claim 10, wherein
the method further allows the sub processor to execute a sub mode
switching step of switching an operation mode to one of a normal
mode and a power saving mode in which power consumption is lower
than in the normal mode, and the sub mode switching step includes a
step of switching an operation mode to the power saving mode in
response to an operation mode of the main processor being switched
to the stop mode, and a step of switching an operation mode to the
normal mode in response to any one of the plurality of activation
factors being detected in the activation factor detecting step.
19. A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium encoded
with an activation control program executed in an image forming
apparatus, the image forming apparatus including a main processor
to execute a program, a first memory to store an executable program
loaded by the main processor to execute a program, the first memory
being a volatile memory, a sub processor to activate the main
processor, and a second memory accessible by the main processor and
the sub processor, the second memory being a nonvolatile memory,
the second memory storing, for each of a plurality of sets
including one or more of a plurality of programs executable by the
main processor, a snapshot that includes an executable program
obtained by the main processor loading one or more programs
included in the set into the first memory, the program causing: one
of the main processor and the sub processor to execute an
association step of associating any one of a plurality of
activation factors with each of a plurality of snapshots
respectively corresponding to the plurality of sets; the main
processor to execute a mode switching step of switching an
operation mode from a drive mode in which power is supplied to a
stop mode in which power is not supplied; and the sub processor to
execute a power supply control step of switching power supplied to
the main processor and the first memory, an activation factor
detecting step of detecting any one of a plurality of activation
factors while power is not supplied to the main processor, and an
activation step of activating the main processor in response to any
one of the plurality of activation factors being detected in the
activation factor detecting step, the power supply control step
including a cutoff control step of cutting off power supplied to
the main processor and the first memory in response to an operation
mode being switched to the stop mode in the mode switching step,
and a power recovery step of supplying power to the main processor
and the first memory before the main processor is activated in the
activation step, the program further causing the main processor to
execute a recovery step of, in response to being activated by the
sub processor, reading out a snapshot associated with the detected
activation factor in the association step from the second memory
and storing the read snapshot into the first memory.
Description
[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No.
2014-167451 filed with Japan Patent Office on Aug. 20, 2014, the
entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus,
and more particularly to an image forming apparatus capable of
switching an operation mode to a power saving mode in which power
consumption is low, an activation control method for the image
forming apparatus, and a non-transitory computer-readable recording
medium encoded with an activation control program that allows a
computer controlling the image forming apparatus to execute the
activation control method.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] There has been a growing demand for reducing power
consumption of image forming apparatuses typified by MFPs (Multi
Function Peripherals) when not driven in a standby state. In this
respect, MFPs have been developed in which the CPU (Central
Processing Unit) controlling the MFP and the RAM (Random Access
Memory) used by the CPU as a working area stop being driven in a
standby state. Meanwhile, it is necessary to minimize the time to
enter a state in which the CPU can execute a program in order to
recover from the standby state.
[0006] For example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2012-249220
describes an image processing apparatus capable of executing a
plurality of functions and having operation screens corresponding
to the functions. The image processing apparatus includes a power
control unit that switches a plurality of power supply modes
including a normal mode and a low power consumption mode in which
power consumption is lower than in the normal mode, a working
memory in which data for implementing a function of the image
processing apparatus is expanded in the normal mode, and a snapshot
storing unit comprised of a nonvolatile storage medium for storing
a snapshot that is image data of the data stored in the working
memory, an activation processing unit that reads out the snapshot
stored in the snapshot storing unit and restores the snapshot on
the working memory when the low power consumption mode is shifted
to the normal mode by the power control unit, a time acquisition
unit that acquires an activation time corresponding to the
restoring by the activation processing unit, a saving processing
unit that stores the snapshot in the working memory into the
snapshot storing unit in association with the activation time
acquired by the time acquisition unit when the normal mode is
shifted to the low power consumption mode by the power control
unit, and a snapshot selecting unit that selects a snapshot to be
read by the activation processing unit from among snapshots stored
in the snapshot storing unit, based on the time of shifting and the
activation time, when the low power consumption mode is shifted to
the normal mode by the power control unit.
[0007] In the image processing apparatus described in Japanese
Patent Laid-Open No. 2012-249220, since the snapshot is restored in
the working memory, the time taken to recover from the low power
consumption mode can be reduced when compared with a case where the
program is expanded in the working memory. However, a predetermined
time is required to restore a plurality of snapshots in the working
memory.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] According to an aspect of the present invention, an image
forming apparatus includes: a main processor to execute a program;
a first memory to store an executable program loaded by the main
processor to execute a program; a sub processor to activate the
main processor; and a second memory accessible by the main
processor and the sub processor. The first memory is a volatile
memory, and the second memory is a nonvolatile memory. The second
memory stores, for each of a plurality of sets including one or
more of a plurality of programs executable by the main processor, a
snapshot that includes an executable program obtained by the main
processor loading one or more programs included in the set into the
first memory. One of the main processor and the sub processor
executes an association step of associating any one of a plurality
of activation factors with each of a plurality of snapshots
respectively corresponding to the plurality of sets. The main
processor executes a mode switching step of switching an operation
mode from a drive mode in which power is supplied to a stop mode in
which power is not supplied. The sub processor executes a power
supply control step of switching power supplied to the main
processor and the first memory, an activation factor detecting step
of detecting any one of a plurality of activation factors while
power is not supplied to the main processor, and an activation step
of activating the main processor in response to any one of the
plurality of activation factors being detected in the activation
factor detecting step. The power supply control step includes a
cutoff step of cutting off power supplied to the main processor and
the first memory in response to an operation mode being switched to
the stop mode in the mode switching step, and a power recovery step
of supplying power to the main processor and the first memory
before the main processor is activated in the activation step. The
main processor further executes a recovery step of, in response to
being activated by the sub processor, reading out a snapshot
associated with the detected activation factor in the association
step from the second memory and storing the read snapshot into the
first memory.
[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention, an
activation control method is performed in an image forming
apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes a main processor to
execute a program, a first memory to store an executable program
loaded by the main processor to execute a program, a sub processor
to activate the main processor, and a second memory accessible by
the main processor and the sub processor. The first memory is a
volatile memory, and the second memory is a nonvolatile memory. The
second memory stores, for each of a plurality of sets including one
or more of a plurality of programs executable by the main
processor, a snapshot that includes an executable program obtained
by the main processor loading one or more programs included in the
set into the first memory. The method allows: one of the main
processor and the sub processor to execute an association step of
associating any one of a plurality of activation factors with each
of a plurality of snapshots respectively corresponding to the
plurality of sets; the main processor to execute a mode switching
step of switching an operation mode from a drive mode in which
power is supplied to a stop mode in which power is not supplied;
and the sub processor to execute a power supply control step of
switching power supplied to the main processor and the first
memory, an activation factor detecting step of detecting any one of
a plurality of activation factors while power is not supplied to
the main processor, and an activation step of activating the main
processor in response to any one of the plurality of activation
factors being detected in the activation factor detecting step. The
power supply control step includes a cutoff control step of cutting
off power supplied to the main processor and the first memory in
response to an operation mode being switched to the stop mode in
the mode switching step, and a power recovery step of supplying
power to the main processor and the first memory before the main
processor is activated in the activation step. The method further
allows the main processor to execute a recovery step of, in
response to being activated by the sub processor, reading out a
snapshot associated with the detected activation factor in the
association step from the second memory and storing the read
snapshot into the first memory.
[0010] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a
non-transitory computer-readable recording medium is encoded with
an activation control program executed in an image forming
apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes a main processor to
execute a program, a first memory to store an executable program
loaded by the main processor to execute a program, a sub processor
to activate the main processor, and a second memory accessible by
the main processor and the sub processor. The first memory is a
volatile memory, and the second memory is a nonvolatile memory. The
second memory stores, for each of a plurality of sets including one
or more of a plurality of programs executable by the main
processor, a snapshot that includes an executable program obtained
by the main processor loading one or more programs included in the
set into the first memory. The program causes: one of the main
processor and the sub processor to execute an association step of
associating any one of a plurality of activation factors with each
of a plurality of snapshots respectively corresponding to the
plurality of sets; the main processor to execute a mode switching
step of switching an operation mode from a drive mode in which
power is supplied to a stop mode in which power is not supplied;
and the sub processor to execute a power supply control step of
switching power supplied to the main processor and the first
memory, an activation factor detecting step of detecting any one of
a plurality of activation factors while power is not supplied to
the main processor, and an activation step of activating the main
processor in response to any one of the plurality of activation
factors being detected in the activation factor detecting step. The
power supply control step includes a cutoff control step of cutting
off power supplied to the main processor and the first memory in
response to an operation mode being switched to the stop mode in
the mode switching step, and a power recovery step of supplying
power to the main processor and the first memory before the main
processor is activated in the activation step. The program further
causes the main processor to execute a recovery step of, in
response to being activated by the sub processor, reading out a
snapshot associated with the detected activation factor in the
association step from the second memory and storing the read
snapshot into the first memory.
[0011] The foregoing and other features, aspects, and advantages of
the present invention will become more apparent from the following
detailed description of the present invention when taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of an MFP in an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall
hardware configuration of the MFP.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the detailed
configuration of a main board.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing exemplary functions of a
main CPU.
[0016] FIG. 5 shows an example of a program definition table
[0017] FIG. 6 shows an example of a snapshot definition table.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing exemplary functions of an
activating CPU.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of
a main activation control process.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of
a sub activation control process.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing exemplary functions of
the main CPU in a modification.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0022] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below
in conjunction with the figures. In the following description, the
same parts are denoted with the same reference numerals. Their
names and functions are also the same. A detailed description
thereof is therefore not repeated.
[0023] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of an MFP in an
embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, MFP 100
is an example of the image forming apparatus and includes a
document scanning unit 130 for scanning a document, an automatic
document feeder 120 for conveying a document to document scanning
unit 130, an image forming unit 140 for forming an image on paper
or other medium based on image data output by document scanning
unit 130 scanning a document, a paper feed unit 150 for supplying
paper to image forming unit 140, and an operation panel 115 as a
user interface.
[0024] Automatic document feeder 120 automatically conveys a
plurality of sheets of a document set on a document feed tray,
sheet by sheet, to a predetermined document scanning position set
on the platen glass of document scanning unit 130 and discharges
the document having a document image read by document scanning unit
130 to a document output tray. Document scanning unit 130 includes
a light source emitting light to a document conveyed to the
document scanning position and a photoelectric transducer that
receives light reflected by the document to scan a document image
in accordance with the size of the document. The photoelectric
transducer converts the received light into image data that is an
electrical signal and outputs the image data to image forming unit
140. Paper feed unit 150 has a plurality of paper feed trays. Each
of the paper feed trays stores paper of a predetermined size. Paper
feed unit 150 takes out paper sheet by sheet from a paper feed tray
that stores paper of the size used in image forming, among the
paper feed trays, and conveys the paper to image forming unit
140.
[0025] Image forming unit 140 forms an image by a well-known
electrophotographic technique. An image is formed on paper conveyed
by paper feed unit 150, based on the processed image data obtained
by performing a variety of data processing such as shading
correction on image data input from document scanning unit 130 or
the externally received image data. MFP 100 has a front door 140A
that can be opened/closed on the front face of image forming unit
140. Image forming unit 140 is exposed to the outside by
opening/closing front door 140A.
[0026] Operation panel 115 is provided on the top face of MFP 100
and functions as a user interface that displays an operation screen
and accepts an operation by a user.
[0027] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall
hardware configuration bf the MFP. Referring to FIG. 2, MFP 100
includes, in addition to automatic document feeder 120, document
scanning unit 130, image forming unit 140, and paper feed unit 150
described above, a main board 111, a communication interface (I/F)
unit 160, a facsimile unit 170, an external storage device 180, a
hard disk drive (HDD) 113 as a mass storage device, operation panel
115, and a sensor unit 117.
[0028] Main board 111 is connected with automatic document feeder
120, document scanning unit 130, image forming unit 140, paper feed
unit 150, communication I/F unit 160, facsimile unit 170, external
storage device 180, HDD 113, operation panel 115, and sensor unit
117.
[0029] Communication I/F unit 160 is an interface for connecting
MFP 100 to a network. Communication I/F unit 160 communicates with
another computer connected to the network via a communication
protocol such as TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) or UDP (User
Datagram Protocol). The communication protocol is not limited to a
particular protocol, and any protocol can be used. The network
connected with communication I/F unit 160 is, for example, a local
area network (LAN), either wired or wireless. The network is not
limited to a LAN but may be a wide area network (WAN), a network
using the Public Switched Telephone Network (Public Switched
Telephone Network), or other networks. The network is further
connected to the Internet. MFP 100 therefore can communicate with a
computer such as a server connected to the Internet.
[0030] Communication I/F unit 160 outputs data received from the
network to main board 111 and outputs data input from main board
111 to the network. Communication I/F unit 160 outputs only the
data addressed to MFP 100 to main board 111, among data received
from the network, and discards data addressed to a device different
from MFP 100, among data received from the network. When data
addressed to MFP 100 for inquiring about a domain name, a MAC
address, an IP address and the like is received, among data
received from the network, communication I/F unit 160 returns a
response without outputting the data to main board 111. The data
for inquiring about a MAC address is, for example, data in
accordance with the ARP (Address Resolution Protocol)
standards.
[0031] Facsimile unit 170 is connected to the Public Switched
Telephone Network (PSTN) to transmit/receive facsimile data. A
CD-ROM (Compact.
[0032] Disk Read Only Memory) 180A or a semiconductor memory is
attached to external storage device 180. External storage device
180 reads out data stored in CD-ROM 118 or the semiconductor
memory. External storage device 180 stores data into CD-ROM 118 or
the semiconductor memory.
[0033] Operation panel 115 includes a display unit 118 and an
operation unit 119. Display unit 118 is, for example, a liquid
crystal display (LCD) and displays instruction menus to users,
information about the acquired image data, and other data.
Operation unit 119 includes a plurality of hard keys and a touch
panel. The touch panel is a multi-touch-supporting touch panel
superimposed on the top surface or the bottom surface of display
unit 118 and detects a position designated by the user in the
display surface of display unit 118.
[0034] Sensor unit 117 includes a plurality of sensors of MFP 100
and detects outputs of a plurality of sensors and outputs the
detected sensor outputs to main board 111. Sensor unit 117 includes
a sensor for detecting opening/closing of front door 140A, a sensor
for detecting opening/closing of a plurality of paper feed trays of
paper feed unit 150, a remaining paper detection sensor for
detecting the quantity of remaining paper, a sensor for detecting
opening/closing of the front door for exposing a paper conveyance
path to the outside, and a jam sensor for detecting a paper jam in
a paper conveyance path.
[0035] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the detailed
configuration of the main board. Referring to FIG. 3, main board
111 includes a main CPU 11, an activating CPU 13, an engine control
ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 15, a power supply
control circuit 17, a RAM 21, a flash memory 23, and connectors 31
to 38.
[0036] RAM 21 is a volatile semiconductor memory used as a working
area for main CPU 11. Flash memory 23 is a nonvolatile
semiconductor memory controlled by main CPU 11 or activating CPU
13.
[0037] Panel connector 31 is connected to operation panel 115. When
the user inputs an operation to operation unit 119 of operation
panel 115, operation unit 119 detects the input operation and
outputs operation identification information for identifying the
detected operation to panel connector 31. Operations input by the
user to operation unit 119 include an operation of pressing a
plurality of hard keys of operation unit 119 and an operation of
touching the touch panel. When any one of a plurality of hard keys
is pressed, operation unit 119 outputs operation identification
information including key identification information of the pressed
key to panel connector 31. When the touch panel is touched,
operation unit 119 outputs operation identification information
including the designated position to panel connector 31. When
outputting operation identification information to panel connector
31, operation unit 119 changes the voltage of a predetermined
activating terminal, among a plurality of terminals of panel
connector 31, from LOW to HIGH. When a specific key is pressed from
among a plurality of hard keys, operation unit 119 changes the
voltage of a predetermined specific terminal corresponding to a
specific key, among a plurality of terminals of panel connector 31,
from LOW to HIGH. There may be one or more specific keys. The
specific keys are a maintenance key and a status check key in the
present embodiment. Hereinafter, the specific terminal
corresponding to the maintenance key is referred to as the
maintenance terminal, and the specific terminal corresponding to
the status check key is referred to as the status check
terminal.
[0038] Sensor connector 32 is connected to sensor unit 117. Sensor
unit 117 detects outputs of a plurality of sensors and outputs a
signal indicating the state of output from each of the sensors to
sensor connector 32. When the state of a predetermined specific
sensor among the sensors changes from OFF to ON, sensor unit 117
changes the voltage of a predetermined specific terminal
corresponding to the specific sensor, among a plurality of
terminals of sensor connector 32, from LOW to HIGH. In the present
embodiment, specific sensors are the sensor for detecting
opening/closing of front door 140A and the sensor for
opening/closing of each of the paper feed trays of paper feed unit
150. The specific terminal corresponding to the sensor for
detecting opening/closing of front door 140A and the sensor for
detecting opening/closing each of the paper feed trays of paper
feed unit 150 are hereinafter referred to as the opening/closing
terminal. A single opening/closing terminal is provided for the
sensor for detecting opening/closing of front door 140A and the
sensors for detecting opening/closing of the paper feed trays of
paper feed unit 150. When the sensor for detecting opening/closing
of front door 140A detects ON to indicate the opening of front door
140A or any one of the sensors for detecting opening/closing of the
paper feed trays detects ON to indicate opening of any one of the
paper feed trays, sensor unit 117 changes the voltage of the
opening/closing terminal from LOW to HIGH.
[0039] FAX connector 33 is connected to facsimile unit 170. When
receiving facsimile data, facsimile unit 170 outputs the received
facsimile data to FAX connector 33. Facsimile unit 170 transmits
the facsimile data input from FAX connector 33. When receiving
facsimile data, facsimile unit 170 changes the voltage of a
predetermined facsimile notice terminal, among a plurality of
terminals of FAX connector 33, from LOW to HIGH.
[0040] Communication connector 34 is connected to communication I/F
unit 160. When receiving data addressed to MFP 100 from the
outside, communication I/F unit 160 outputs the received data to
communication connector 34. Communication I/F unit 160 transmits
data input from communication connector 34. When receiving a print
job from the outside, communication I/F unit 160 changes the
voltage of a predetermined job notice terminal, among a plurality
of terminals of communication connector 34, from LOW to HIGH.
[0041] HDD connector 35 is connected to HDD 113. External connector
36 is connected to external storage device 180.
[0042] Main CPU 11 can access flash memory 23 to read out data
stored in flash memory 23 or write data into flash memory 23. In
particular, main CPU 11 loads one or more programs among a
plurality of programs stored in flash memory 23 into RAM 21 for
execution. Main CPU 11 also can load a plurality of programs stored
in flash memory 23 into RAM 21 for execution. The programs stored
in flash memory 23 include a facsimile transmitting program for
transmitting facsimile data, a facsimile receiving program for
receiving facsimile data, a print job receiving program for
receiving a print job, an image forming program for printing image
data, a document scanning program for controlling document scanning
unit 130 to scan a document, a maintenance program for managing
consumables in MFP 100, an error state notifying program for giving
notification of an error state, and a plurality of hardware control
programs for controlling a plurality of hardware resources. The
hardware resources include operation panel 115, sensor unit 117,
facsimile unit 170, communication I/F unit 160, HDD 113, external
storage device 180, and engine control ASIC 15.
[0043] Main CPU 11 is connected to operation panel 115 through
panel connector 31. Main CPU 11 controls operation panel 115 by
executing a panel control program for controlling operation panel
115 among the hardware control programs. Main CPU 11 is connected
to sensor unit 117 through sensor connector 32. Main CPU 11
controls sensor unit 117 by executing a sensor control program for
controlling sensor unit 117 among the hardware control programs.
Main CPU 11 is connected to facsimile unit 170 through FAX
connector 33. Main CPU 11 controls facsimile unit 170 by executing
a facsimile control program for controlling facsimile unit 170
among the hardware control programs. Main CPU 11 is connected to
communication I/F unit 160 through communication connector 34. Main
CPU 11 controls communication I/F unit 160 by executing a
communication control program for controlling communication I/F
unit 160 among the hardware control programs. Main CPU 11 is
connected to HDD 113 through HDD connector 35. Main CPU 11 controls
HDD 113 by executing a HDD control program for controlling HDD 113
among the hardware control programs. Main CPU 11 is connected to
external storage device 180 through external connector 36. Main CPU
11 controls external storage device 180 by executing an external
device control program for controlling external storage device 180
among the hardware control programs. Main CPU 11 is connected to
engine control ASIC 15 and controls engine control ASIC 15 by
executing an ASIC control program for controlling ASIC 15 among the
hardware control programs.
[0044] Activating CPU 13 is connected to the activating terminal of
panel connector 31 and detects an activation factor in response to
the voltage of the activating terminal changing from LOW to HIGH.
Activating CPU 13 is also connected to the maintenance terminal and
the status check terminal of panel connector 31 and detects an
activation factor in response to the voltage of one of the
maintenance terminal and the status check terminal changing from
LOW to HIGH.
[0045] Activating CPU 13 activates main CPU 11 in response to
detecting an activation factor in a state in which main CPU 11 is
not driven. Specifically, activating CPU 13 is connected to a reset
terminal of activating CPU 13 and outputs a reset signal to the
reset terminal thereby to activate activating CPU 13. Activating
CPU 13 can access flash memory 23 to read out data stored in flash
memory 23 or write data into flash memory 23.
[0046] Activating CPU 13 is connected to the opening/closing
terminal of sensor connector 32 and detects an activation factor in
response to the voltage of the opening/closing terminal changing
from LOW to HIGH. Activating CPU 13 is connected to the facsimile
notice terminal of FAX connector 33 and detects an activation
factor in response to the voltage of the facsimile notice terminal
changing from LOW to HIGH. Activating CPU 13 is connected to the
job notice terminal of communication connector 34 and detects an
activation factor in response to the voltage of the job notice
terminal changing from LOW to HIGH.
[0047] Engine control ASIC 15 is connected to automatic document
feeder 120, document scanning unit 130, image forming unit 140, and
paper feed unit 150 through an engine connector 37. Engine control
ASIC 15 is controlled by main CPU 11 to control automatic document
feeder 120, document scanning unit 130, image forming unit 140, and
paper feed unit 150. Engine control ASIC 15 has a function of
executing predetermined image processing on image data output by
document scanning unit 130 scanning a document and a function of
converting image data into raster data to be printed by image
forming unit 140.
[0048] Power supply control circuit 17 is connected to a commercial
power source through a power supply connector 38. Power supply
control circuit 17 supplies power supplied from the commercial
power source to main CPU 11, engine control ASIC 15, activating CPU
13, RAM 21, and flash memory 23. Power supply control circuit 17 is
controlled by activating CPU 13 to switch between a state in which
power is supplied to main CPU 11, engine control ASIC 15, RAM 21
and flash memory 23 and a state in which power is not supplied to
them.
[0049] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing exemplary functions of the
main CPU. The functions shown in FIG. 4 are formed in main CPU 11
by main CPU 11 executing a main activation control program. The
main activation control program is a part of the activation control
program. Referring to FIG. 4, main CPU 11 includes a snapshot
acquiring portion 51, a main mode switching portion 53, and a
recovery portion 55.
[0050] Snapshot acquiring portion 51 acquires a snapshot. A
snapshot is data stored in RAM 21 in a state in which CPU 11 loads
one or more programs among a plurality of programs stored in flash
memory 23 into RAM 21. Snapshot acquiring portion 51 includes a
snapshot generating portion 61 and an associating portion 63.
[0051] Snapshot generating portion 61 loads predetermined one or
more programs corresponding to each of a plurality of activation
factors into RAM 21 for each activation factor. An executable
program corresponding to one or more programs defined for an
activation factor is thus stored in RAM 21. The executable program
stored in RAM 21 is stored into flash memory 23 as a snapshot that
is image data. Snapshot generating portion 61 thus stores
respective snapshots corresponding to a plurality of activation
factors into flash memory 23. Snapshot generating portion 61
outputs an activation factor and the address in flash memory 23 of
the snapshot stored in flash memory 23 corresponding to the
activation factor, to associating portion 63.
[0052] Specifically, a program definition table is stored in flash
memory 23 in advance, in which activation factors are associated
with programs. Snapshot generating portion 61 refers to the program
definition table to store a snapshot into flash memory 23.
[0053] FIG. 5 shows an example of the program definition table.
Referring to FIG. 5, the program definition table includes a
program definition record for each of a plurality of activation
factors. A program definition record includes an activation factor
field and a program field. A program definition record including
"maintenance key" in the activation factor field includes
"maintenance program", "HDD control program", "panel control
program" in the program field. A program definition record
including "status check key" in the activation factor field and a
program definition record including "front door OR paper feed tray
open" in the activation factor field include "error state notifying
program", "sensor control program", "panel control program " in the
program field. A program definition record including "facsimile
received" in the activation factor field includes "facsimile
receiving program", "facsimile control program", "image forming
program", "ASIC control program" in the program field. A program
definition record including "print job received" in the activation
factor field includes "print job receiving program", "communication
control program", "image forming program", "ASIC control program"
in the program field. A program definition record including
"others" in the activation factor field includes "all programs" in
the program field.
[0054] Returning to FIG. 4, snapshot generating portion 61 resets
RAM 21 and loads a snapshot generating program alone corresponding
to snapshot generating portion 61, into RAM 21. For example, the
snapshot generating program is stored in flash memory 23, and RAM
21 and CPU 11 are reset after the read address of a program defined
in a boot program stored in flash memory 23 is changed to the
address at which the snapshot generating program is stored. At a
stage when CPU 11 is reset, snapshot generating portion 61 alone is
formed in main CPU 11.
[0055] Snapshot generating portion 61 reads out a program
definition record from the program definition table stored in flash
memory 23 and loads only the programs set in the program field of
the read program definition record into RAM 21. The process of
snapshot generating portion 61 deciding a program definition record
to be read out from among a plurality of program definition records
included in the program definition table will be described later.
Data stored in RAM 21 is then stored into flash memory 23 as a
snapshot that is image data. Snapshot generating portion 61 outputs
a set of the activation factor set in the activation factor field
of the read program definition record and the address information
indicating the location in flash memory 23 of the snapshot stored
in flash memory 23, to associating portion 63.
[0056] In response to input of a set of the activation factor and
the address information from snapshot generating portion 61,
associating portion 63 generates a snapshot definition record and
additionally stores the snapshot definition record in a snapshot
definition table stored in flash memory 23. A snapshot definition
record includes an activation factor field and an address
information field. An activation factor is set in the activation
factor field, and address information indicating the location in
flash memory 23 storing the snapshot corresponding to the
activation factor is set in the address information field.
[0057] Snapshot generating portion 61 refers to the snapshot
definition table and the program definition table stored in flash
memory 23 to read out a program definition record in which an
activation factor not stored in any of one or more snapshot
definition records included in the snapshot definition table is set
in the activation factor field, from the program definition
table.
[0058] Snapshot acquiring portion 51 may download a snapshot from a
predetermined server. In this case, snapshot generating portion 61
is not necessary. In the server, a plurality of snapshots
corresponding to the same model as CPU 11 of MFP 100 are stored in
association with activation factors. Snapshot acquiring portion 51
downloads sets of an activation factor and a snapshot corresponding
to the activation factor, according to the number of activation
factors, and stores a plurality of snapshots included in the
downloaded sets into flash memory 23. Snapshot acquiring portion 51
outputs a set of the activation factor and the address information
indicating the location in flash memory 23 of the snapshot stored
in flash memory 23 to associating portion 63. In response to input
of a set of the activation factor and the address information,
associating portion 63 generates a snapshot definition record and
additionally stores the snapshot definition record into the
snapshot definition table stored in flash memory 23.
[0059] FIG. 6 shows an example of the snapshot definition table.
Referring to FIG. 6, the snapshot definition table includes a
snapshot definition record for each of a plurality of activation
factors. A snapshot definition record includes an activation factor
field and an address information field. An activation factor is set
in the activation factor field, and address information indicating
the location in flash memory 23 in which the snapshot corresponding
to the activation factor is stored is set in the address
information field. A snapshot definition record including
"maintenance key" in the activation factor field includes "address
A" in the address information field. The snapshot stored at the
location specified by address A in flash memory 23 includes
"maintenance program", "HDD control program", "panel control
program" and does not include any other programs.
[0060] A snapshot definition record including "status check key" in
the activation factor field and a snapshot definition record
including "front door OR paper feed tray open" in the activation
factor field include "address B" in the address information field.
The snapshot stored at the location specified by address B in flash
memory 23 includes "error state notifying program", "sensor control
program", "panel control program", and "error state notifying
program" but does not include any other programs.
[0061] A snapshot definition record including "facsimile received"
in the activation factor field includes "address C" in the address
information field. The snapshot stored at the location specified by
address C in flash memory 23 includes "facsimile receiving
program", "facsimile control program", "image forming program", and
"ASIC control program" but does not include any other programs.
[0062] A snapshot definition record including "print job received"
in the activation factor field includes "address D" in the address
information field. The snapshot stored at the location specified by
address D in flash memory 23 includes "print job receiving
program", "communication control program", "image forming program",
and "ASIC control program" but does not include any other
programs.
[0063] A snapshot definition record including "others" in the
activation factor field includes "address E" in the address
information field. The snapshot stored at the location specified by
address E in flash memory 23 includes all the programs stored in
flash memory 23 and has a size larger than the other snapshots. The
snapshot corresponding to the activation factor "others" is
hereinafter referred to as a default snapshot.
[0064] Returning to FIG. 4, snapshot generating portion 61 refers
to the snapshot definition table and the program definition table
stored in flash memory 23, and, if there is no program definition
record in which the activation factor not set in any of one or more
snapshot definition records included in the snapshot definition
table is set in the activation factor field, resets RAM 21 and CPU
11 after the read address of a program defined in the boot program
stored in flash memory 23 is changed to "address E" set in the
address information field of the snapshot definition record
including "others" in the activation factor field.
[0065] Main mode switching portion 53 switches the operation mode
from a drive mode to a stop mode. The drive mode is an operation
mode in which main CPU 11 receives power supply from power supply
control circuit 17. The stop mode is an operation mode in which
main CPU 11 is not supplied with power from power supply control
circuit 17. When the operation mode is the drive mode, CPU 11 is
driven with power supply from power supply control circuit 17. When
the operation mode is the stop mode, CPU 11 is not supplied with
power from power supply control circuit 17 and therefore is not
driven. When switching the operation mode from the drive mode to
the stop mode, main mode switching portion 53 outputs a switch
signal to activating CPU 13. The timing when main mode switching
portion 53 switches the operation mode from the drive mode to the
stop mode can be determined as desired. Examples of the timing
include, but not limited to, when an operation is not input to
operation panel 115 continuously for a predetermined time and when
image forming unit 140 is not driven continuously for a
predetermined time.
[0066] Recovery portion 55 is activated by activating CPU 13 and
reads out the snapshot associated with the activation factor from
among one or more snapshots stored in flash memory 23 from flash
memory 23 and stores the read snapshot into RAM 21. After storing
the snapshot into RAM 21, recovery portion 55 outputs an activation
completion signal to main mode switching portion 53.
[0067] Specifically, when a reset signal is input from activating
CPU 13 after power is supplied from power supply control circuit
17, recovery portion 55 executes the boot program stored in flash
memory 23. This boot program defines address information indicating
the location in flash memory 23 of any one of one or more snapshots
stored in flash memory 23. As will be described later, the address
information of the snapshot defined by the boot program is
overwritten by activating CPU 13. Recovery portion 55 reads out the
snapshot specified by the address information defined by the boot
program from flash memory 23 and stores the read snapshot into RAM
21. The snapshot is thus stored in RAM 21 as an executable program,
so that CPU 11 enters a state in which it can execute the
executable program.
[0068] Main mode switching portion 53 includes a
switching-after-execution portion 59. When recovery portion 55
stores a snapshot different from the default snapshot that includes
all the programs executable by CPU 11 into RAM 21,
switching-after-execution portion 59 switches the operation mode
from the drive mode to the stop mode after CPU 11 executes the
executable program stored in RAM 21 and a series of processing
based on the activation factor is finished. When the activation
factor is any one of "maintenance key", "status check key", "front
door OR paper feed tray open", "facsimile received", and "print job
received", a snapshot different from the default snapshot is stored
into RAM 21.
[0069] Specifically, when the activation factor is "maintenance
key", switching-after-execution portion 59 controls HDD 113 and
operation panel 115 to read maintenance data stored in HDD 113,
generate a screen for managing consumables in MFP 100 based on the
maintenance data, and display the generated screen on display unit
118, and thereafter switches the operation mode from the drive mode
to the stop mode. The screen for managing consumables includes the
remaining paper stocked in the paper feed trays of paper feed unit
150, the remaining level of toner used in the developing unit of
image forming unit 140, and the lifetime of each of a
photoconductor drum and a heat transfer roller of image forming
unit 140. These values are stored in HDD 113 and rewritten every
time MFP 100 is driven. When the activation factor is "status check
key" or "front door OR paper feed tray open",
switching-after-execution portion 59 controls sensor unit 117 and
operation panel 115 to generate a screen displaying an error state
and display the generated screen on display unit 118, and
thereafter switches the operation mode from the drive mode to the
stop mode. The screen displaying an error state includes a sensor
value detected by sensor unit 117, for example, the quantity of
remaining paper detected by the remaining paper detection sensor
for detecting the quantity of remaining paper, the open/closed
state of the front door detected by the sensor provided in a paper
conveyance path for detecting the opening/closing of the front
door, and the location of a paper jam in a paper conveyance path
detected by the jam sensor.
[0070] When the activation factor is "facsimile received",
switching-after-execution portion 59 controls facsimile unit 170 to
receive facsimile data, controls image forming unit 140 and paper
feed unit 150 through engine control ASIC 15 to form an image of
facsimile data on paper, and thereafter switches the operation mode
from the drive mode to the stop mode. When the activation factor is
"print job received", switching-after-execution portion 59 controls
communication I/F unit 160 to receive a print job and controls
image forming unit 140 and paper feed unit 150 through engine
control ASIC 15 to form an image of print data included in the
print job on paper, and thereafter switches the operation mode from
the drive mode to the stop mode.
[0071] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing exemplary functions of the
activating CPU. The functions shown in FIG. 7 are formed in
activating CPU 13 by activating CPU 13 executing a sub activation
control program. The sub activation control program is a part of
the activation control program. Referring to FIG. 7, activating CPU
13 includes an operation mode detecting portion 81, a sub mode
switching portion 83, an activation factor detecting portion 85, a
power supply control portion 87, and an activating portion 89.
[0072] Operation mode detecting portion 81 detects switching of
operation modes by main CPU 11. If a switch signal is input from
main CPU 11, operation mode detecting portion 81 detects that main
CPU 11 switches the operation mode from the drive mode to the stop
mode. When detecting that main CPU 11 switches the operation mode
from the drive mode to the stop mode, operation mode detecting
portion 81 outputs a switch instruction to power supply control
portion 87 and sub mode switching portion 83.
[0073] Sub mode switching portion 83 switches the operation mode to
one of a normal mode and a power saving mode in which power
consumption is lower than in the normal mode. In response to input
of a switch signal from operation mode detecting portion 81, sub
mode switching portion 83 switches the operation mode from the
normal mode to the power saving mode. When switching the operation
mode from the normal mode to the power saving mode, sub mode
switching portion 83 outputs a detection instruction to activation
factor detecting portion 85.
[0074] When a detection instruction is input from sub mode
switching portion 83, activation factor detecting portion 85
detects an activation factor. Specifically, activation factor
detecting portion 85 detects the voltages of the activating
terminal, the maintenance terminal, and the status check terminal
of panel connector 31, the opening/closing terminal of sensor
connector 32, the facsimile notice terminal of FAX connector 33,
and the job notice terminal of communication connector 34, and if
the voltage of any one of those terminals changes from LOW to HIGH,
detects an activation factor. When detecting an activation factor,
activation factor detecting portion 85 outputs terminal
identification information for identifying the terminal with the
voltage changing from LOW to HIGH to activating portion 89 and sub
mode switching portion 83.
[0075] In the power saving mode, sub mode switching portion 83
switches the operation mode from the power saving mode to the
normal mode in response to input of terminal identification
information from activation factor detecting portion 85, in other
words, in response to the voltage changing from
[0076] LOW to HIGH at any one of the activating terminal, the
maintenance terminal, and the status check terminal of panel
connector 31, the opening/closing terminal of sensor connector 32,
the facsimile notice terminal of FAX connector 33, and the job
notice terminal of communication connector 34.
[0077] After sub mode switching portion 83 switches the operation
mode to the power saving mode, activating CPU 13 operates in a HALT
mode in which no program is executed until the operation mode is
switched to the normal mode. In the power saving mode, activating
CPU 13 executes only the process of detecting the voltages of the
activating terminal, the maintenance terminal, and the status check
terminal of panel connector 31, the opening/closing terminal of
sensor connector 32, the facsimile notice terminal of FAX connector
33, and the job notice terminal of communication connector 34. In
other words, activating CPU 13 enables only activation factor
detecting portion 85 in the power saving mode. Therefore,
activating CPU 13 can reduce power consumption in the power saving
mode when compared with the normal mode.
[0078] While main CPU 11 switches the operation mode from the drive
mode to the stop mode, activating portion 89 activates main CPU 11
in response to an activation factor being detected by activation
factor detecting portion 85. Specifically, activating portion 89
activates main CPU 11 by outputting a reset signal to the reset
terminal of main CPU 11. Activating portion 89 includes a snapshot
deciding portion 95 and a notifying portion 97.
[0079] In response to input of terminal identification information
from activation factor detecting portion 85, snapshot deciding
portion 95 refers to the snapshot definition table stored in flash
memory 23 to decide a snapshot and outputs the address information
of the decided snapshot to notifying portion 97.
[0080] Specifically, when the terminal identification information
of the maintenance terminal of panel connector 31 is input,
snapshot deciding portion 95 decides that the activation factor is
"maintenance key". Snapshot deciding portion 95 refers to snapshot
definition table stored in flash memory 23 to decide on the
snapshot stored at the address information "address A"
corresponding to the decided activation factor "maintenance key"
and outputs the address information "address A" to notifying
portion 97.
[0081] When the terminal identification information of the status
check terminal of panel connector 31 is input, snapshot deciding
portion 95 decides that the activation factor is "status check
key". Snapshot deciding portion 95 refers to the snapshot
definition table stored in flash memory 23 to decide on the
snapshot stored at the address information "address B"
corresponding to the decided activation factor "status check key"
and outputs the address information "address B" to notifying
portion 97.
[0082] When the terminal identification information of the
opening/closing terminal of sensor connector 32 is input, snapshot
deciding portion 95 decides that the activation factor is "front
door OR paper feed tray open". Snapshot deciding portion 95 refers
to the snapshot definition table stored in flash memory 23 to
decide on the snapshot stored at the address information "address
B" corresponding to the decided activation factor "front door OR
paper feed tray open" and outputs the address information "address
B" to notifying portion 97.
[0083] When the terminal identification information of the
facsimile notice terminal of FAX connector 33 is input, snapshot
deciding portion 95 decides that the activation factor is
"facsimile received". Snapshot deciding portion 95 refers to the
snapshot definition table stored in flash memory 23 to decide on
the snapshot stored at the address information "address C"
corresponding to the decided activation factor "facsimile received"
and outputs the address information "address C" to notifying
portion 97.
[0084] When the terminal identification information of the job
notice terminal of communication connector 34 is input, snapshot
deciding portion 95 decides that the activation factor is "print
job received". Snapshot deciding portion 95 refers to the snapshot
definition table stored in flash memory 23 to decide on the
snapshot stored at the address information "address D"
corresponding to the decided activation factor "print job received"
and outputs the address information "address D" to notifying
portion 97.
[0085] When the terminal identification information of the
activating terminal of panel connector 31 is input and the terminal
identification information of the maintenance terminal or the
status check terminal of panel connector 31 is not input, snapshot
deciding portion 95 decides that the activation factor is "others".
Snapshot deciding portion 95 refers to the snapshot definition
table stored in flash memory 23 to decide on the snapshot stored at
the address information "address E" corresponding to the decided
activation factor "others" and outputs the address information
"address E" to notifying portion 97.
[0086] In response to input of the address information from
snapshot deciding portion 95, notifying portion 97 notifies main
CPU 11 of the snapshot. Specifically, the read address of a program
defined by the boot program of main CPU 11 stored in flash memory
23 is overwritten with the address information input from snapshot
deciding portion 95. After notifying portion 97 rewrites the boot
program, activating portion 89 outputs a power feed instruction to
power supply control portion 87 and outputs a reset signal to the
reset terminal of main CPU 11.
[0087] Power supply control portion 87 controls power supply
control circuit 17 to switch power to be supplied to main CPU 11,
engine control ASIC 15, RAM 21, and flash memory 23. Power supply
control portion 87 includes a cutoff control portion 91 and a power
recovery portion 93. In response to input of a switch instruction
from operation mode detecting portion 81, cutoff control portion 91
allows power supply control circuit 17 to cut off power supplied to
main CPU 11, engine control ASIC 15, RAM 21, and flash memory 23.
Since power supply control circuit 17 does not supply power to main
CPU 11, engine control ASIC 15, RAM 21, and flash memory 23, no
power is consumed in main CPU 11, engine control ASIC 15, RAM 21,
and flash memory 23. Although activating CPU 13 is driven with
power supplied from power supply control circuit 17, power consumed
in activating CPU 13 is also smaller than power consumed in the
normal mode because the operation mode is switched to the power
saving mode.
[0088] In response to input of a power feed instruction from
activating portion 89, power recovery portion 93 allows power
supply control circuit 17 to supply power to main CPU 11, engine
control ASIC 15, RAM 21, and flash memory 23. As a result, main CPU
11, engine control ASIC 15, RAM 21, and flash memory 23 are driven.
When power is supplied from power supply control circuit 17 and a
reset signal is input from activating CPU 13, main CPU 11 executes
the boot program stored in flash memory 23. Since the read address
of the program is overwritten by notifying portion 97 in this boot
program, the snapshot decided by snapshot deciding portion 95, in
other words, the snapshot corresponding to the activation factor is
read out from flash memory 23 and stored into RAM 21. Therefore,
when the activation factor is not "others", a snapshot other than
the default snapshot is stored into RAM 21. Since a snapshot other
than the default snapshot has a size smaller than the default
snapshot, the time for main CPU 11 to finish storing the snapshot
into RAM 21 can be reduced. As a result, the time until main CPU 11
becomes able to execute a process can be reduced.
[0089] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of
a main activation control process. The main activation control
process is a process executed by main CPU 11 by main CPU 11
executing the main activation control program. The main activation
control program is a part of the activation control program.
Referring to FIG. 8, main CPU 11 receives a reset signal (step
S01). Here, activating CPU 13 outputs a reset signal to the reset
terminal of main CPU 11. Main CPU 11 receiving the reset signal
stores a snapshot into RAM 21. Specifically, main CPU 11 executes
the boot program stored in flash memory 23. Main CPU 11 reads out
the snapshot specified by the address information defined by the
boot program, among a plurality of snapshots stored in flash memory
23, from flash memory 23 and stores the read snapshot into RAM
21.
[0090] In the next step S03, an activation factor is accepted, and
the process proceeds to step S04. In step S01, if a reset signal is
input from activating CPU 13, an activation factor is detected by
activating CPU 13, and the detected activation factor is accepted.
Activation factors include the activation factor "maintenance key"
that is an event in which the voltage of the maintenance terminal
of panel connector 31 changes from LOW to HIGH, the activation
factor "status check key" that is an event in which the voltage of
the status check terminal of panel connector 31 changes from LOW to
HIGH, the activation factor "front door OR paper feed tray open"
that is an event in which the voltage of the opening/closing
terminal of sensor connector 32 changes from LOW to HIGH, the
activation factor "facsimile received" that is an event in which
the voltage of the facsimile notice terminal of FAX connector 33
changes from LOW to HIGH, the activation factor "print job
received" that is an event in which the voltage of the job notice
terminal of communication connector 34 changes from LOW to HIGH,
and the activation factor "others" that is an event in which the
voltage of the activating terminal of panel connector 31 changes
from LOW to HIGH but the voltage of neither the maintenance
terminal nor the status check terminal changes.
[0091] In step S04, it is determined whether the activation factor
is "others". If the activation factor is "others", the process
proceeds to step S05. If not, the process proceeds to step S08. If
the activation factor "others" is accepted, the snapshot stored in
RAM 21 in step S02 includes all the programs stored in flash memory
23.
[0092] In the next step S05, it is determined whether an operation
is accepted. The operation input by the user to operation unit 119
is accepted.
[0093] If an operation is accepted, the process proceeds to step
S06. If not, the process proceeds to step S07. In step S06, the
process is executed in accordance with the accepted operation, and
the process returns to step S05. In step S07, it is determined
whether a predetermined time has elapsed without accepting an
operation. If a predetermined time has elapsed without accepting an
operation, the process proceeds to step S10. If not, the process
returns to step S05.
[0094] In step S08, the process corresponding to the activation
factor is executed. Specifically, if the activation factor
"maintenance key" is accepted, a screen for managing consumables in
MFP 100 is generated and displayed on display unit 118. Since the
snapshot stored in RAM 21 in step S02 includes the maintenance
program, the HDD control program and the panel control program,
main CPU 11 can execute these processes.
[0095] If the activation factor "status check key" or the
activation factor "front door OR paper feed tray open" is accepted,
a screen displaying an error state is displayed on display unit
118. Since the snapshot stored in RAM 21 in step S02 includes the
error state notifying program, the sensor control program, and the
panel control program, main CPU 11 can execute these processes.
[0096] If the activation factor "facsimile received" is detected,
facsimile unit 170 is controlled to receive facsimile data, and
image forming unit 140 and paper feed unit 150 are controlled
through engine control ASIC 15 to form an image of facsimile data
on paper. Since the snapshot stored in RAM 21 in step S02 includes
the facsimile receiving program, the facsimile control program, the
image forming program, and the ASIC control program, main CPU 11
can execute these processes.
[0097] If the activation factor "print job received" is detected,
communication I/F unit 160 is controlled to receive a print job,
and image forming unit 140 and paper feed unit 150 are controlled
through engine control ASIC 15 to form an image of print data
included in the print job on paper. Since the snapshot stored in
RAM 21 in step S02 includes the print job receiving program, the
communication control program, the image forming program, and the
ASIC control program, main CPU 11 can execute these processes.
[0098] In step S09, it is determined whether the process
corresponding to the activation factor is finished. The process
waits until the process is finished (NO in step S09). If the
process is finished (YES in step S09), the process proceeds to step
S10.
[0099] In step S10, the operation mode is switched to the stop
mode. Accordingly, power consumed in the hardware resources
controlled by CPU 11 is reduced. In the next step S11, a switch
signal is output to activating CPU 13. The process then ends.
[0100] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of
a sub activation control process. The sub activation control
process is a process executed by activating CPU 13 by activating
CPU 13 executing the sub activation control program. The sub
activation control program is a part of the activation control
program.
[0101] Referring to FIG. 9, activating CPU 13 determines whether a
switch signal is input from main CPU 11 (step S21). The process
waits until a switch signal is input (NO in step S21). If a switch
signal is input (YES in step S21), the process proceeds to step
S22.
[0102] In step S22, the power supply is cut off. Specifically,
power supply control circuit 17 cuts off power supplied to main CPU
11, engine control ASIC 15, RAM 21, and flash memory 23. Power is
thus not consumed in main CPU 11, engine control ASIC 15, RAM 21,
and flash memory 23.
[0103] In the next step S23, the operation mode is switched from
the normal mode to the power saving mode. After the operation mode
is switched to the power saving mode, activating CPU 13 operates in
the HALT mode in which no program is executed until the operation
mode is switched to the normal mode. In the power saving mode,
activating CPU 13 executes only the process of detecting the
voltages of the activating terminal, the maintenance terminal, and
the status check terminal of panel connector 31, the
opening/closing terminal of sensor connector 32, the facsimile
notice terminal of FAX connector 33, and the job notice terminal of
communication connector 34. Activating CPU 13 thus can reduce power
consumption in the power saving mode when compared with the normal
mode.
[0104] In the next step S24, it is determined whether an activation
factor is detected. The process waits until an activation factor is
detected (NO in step S24). If an activation factor is detected (YES
in step S24), the process proceeds to step S25. Specifically, if
the voltage of the maintenance terminal of panel connector 31
changes from LOW to HIGH, the activation factor "maintenance key"
is detected. If the voltage of the status check terminal of panel
connector 31 changes from LOW to HIGH, the activation factor
"status check key" is detected. If the voltage of the
opening/closing terminal of sensor connector 32 changes from LOW to
HIGH, the activation factor "front door OR paper feed tray open" is
detected. If the voltage of the facsimile notice terminal of FAX
connector 33 changes from LOW to HIGH, the activation factor
"facsimile received" is detected. If the voltage of the job notice
terminal of communication connector 34 changes from LOW to HIGH,
the activation factor "print job received" is detected. If the
voltage of the activating terminal of panel connector 31 changes
from LOW to HIGH and the voltage of neither the maintenance
terminal nor the status check terminal of panel connector 31
changes from LOW to HIGH, the activation factor "others" is
detected.
[0105] In step S25, the operation mode is switched to the normal
mode. Power is then supplied to main CPU 11, engine control ASIC
15, RAM 21, and flash memory 23. Specifically, power supply control
circuit 17 is controlled such that power supply control circuit 17
supplies power to main CPU 11, engine control ASIC 15, RAM 21, and
flash memory 23.
[0106] In the next step S27, the address information of the
snapshot corresponding to the activation factor detected in step
S24 is acquired. Specifically, by referring to the snapshot
definition table stored in flash memory 23, the address information
indicating the location where the snapshot corresponding to the
activation factor detected in step S24 is stored in flash memory 23
is acquired. Specifically, if the activation factor "maintenance
key" is detected, the address information "address A" is acquired.
If the activation factor "status check key" is detected, the
address information "address B" is acquired. If the activation
factor "front door OR paper feed tray open" is detected, the
address information "address B" is acquired. If the activation
factor "facsimile received" is detected, the address information
"address C" is acquired. If the activation factor "print job
received" is detected, the address information "address D" is
acquired. If the activation factor "others" is detected, the
address information "address E" is acquired.
[0107] In the next step S28, the address information of the boot
program of main CPU 11 is overwritten. Specifically, the read
address of a program defined by the boot program of main CPU stored
in flash memory 23 is overwritten with the address information
acquired in step S28. A reset signal is then output to the reset
terminal of main CPU 11 (step S29), and the process returns to step
S21.
[0108] As described above, MFP 100 in the present embodiment
functions as an image forming apparatus. For each of a plurality of
sets including one or more of a plurality of programs executable by
main CPU 11, a snapshot that includes an executable program
obtained by main CPU 11 loading one or more programs included in
the set into RAM 21 is stored in flash memory 23. Main CPU 11
associates any one of a plurality of activation factors with each
of a plurality of snapshots. In response to any of a plurality of
activation factors being detected while main CPU 11 and RAM 21 are
not supplied with power, activating CPU 13 activates main CPU 11.
In response to the operation mode being switched to the stop mode
by main CPU 11, power supplied to main CPU 11 and RAM 21 is cut
off. Power is thus not consumed by main CPU 11 and RAM 21, thereby
reducing power consumption.
[0109] In response to being activated by activating CPU 13, main
CPU 11 reads out the snapshot associated with the activation factor
detected by activating CPU 13 from flash memory 23 and stores the
read snapshot into RAM 21. Since the snapshot includes one or more
of a plurality of programs, and the snapshot associated with the
activation factor is stored in RAM 21, the snapshot that includes
only the program that executes the process corresponding to the
activation factor is stored. Since the size of the snapshot is
smaller than the size of the default snapshot, the time until main
CPU 11 becomes able to execute a process can be reduced.
[0110] Activating CPU 13 specifies the snapshot associated with the
detected activation factor by the program definition table,
specifies the address information indicating the location where the
specified snapshot is stored in flash memory 23 by referring to the
snapshot definition table, and outputs the address information to
main CPU 11. Main CPU 11 thus can store the snapshot associated
with the activation factor into RAM 21.
[0111] A snapshot that includes the executable program obtained by
main CPU 11 loading all of a plurality of programs into RAM 21 is
stored by default in flash memory 23, and activation factors except
specific factors among a plurality of activation factors are
associated with the default snapshot. Specific factors are, for
example, "maintenance key", "status check key", "front door OR
paper feed tray open", "facsimile received", and "print job
received", and an activation factor except the specific factors is
"others". Therefore, when an activation factor except the specific
factors is detected, the image forming apparatus can execute all
the executable processes.
[0112] Main CPU 11 refers to the program definition table and
stores the executable program obtained by loading at least one of a
plurality of programs into RAM 21 into flash memory 23 as a
snapshot. Main CPU 11 thus can generate a plurality of
snapshots.
[0113] If the activation factor is a specific factor, main CPU 11
switches the operation mode to the stop mode after executing the
process determined by the activation factor. Power consumption thus
can be further reduced.
[0114] In response to the voltage of any one of the activating
terminal, the maintenance terminal, and the status check terminal
of panel connector 31, the opening/closing terminal of sensor
connector 32, the facsimile notice terminal of FAX connector 33,
and the job notice terminal of communication connector 34 changing
from LOW to HIGH, activating CPU 13 detects the activation factor
corresponding to the terminal with voltage changed, among the
activating terminal, the maintenance terminal, and the status check
terminal of panel connector 31, the opening/closing terminal of
sensor connector 32, the facsimile notice terminal of FAX connector
33, and the job notice terminal of communication connector 34. The
activation factor thus can be easily detected. In addition, power
consumption by activating CPU 13 can be reduced because it is only
necessary to detect that the voltage changes at any one of the
activating terminal, the maintenance terminal, and the status check
terminal of panel connector 31, the opening/closing terminal of
sensor connector 32, the facsimile notice terminal of FAX connector
33, and the job notice terminal of communication connector 34.
[0115] In response to the operation mode of main CPU 11 being
switched to the stop mode, activating CPU 13 switches the operation
mode to the power saving mode. In response to the voltage changing
at any one of the activating terminal, the maintenance terminal,
and the status check terminal of panel connector 31, the
opening/closing terminal of sensor connector 32, the facsimile
notice terminal of FAX connector 33, and the job notice terminal of
communication connector 34 in the power saving mode, the operation
mode is switched to the normal mode. Power is thus not consumed in
main CPU 11 until an activation factor is detected after main CPU
11 is stopped.
[0116] Although snapshot acquiring portion 51 is provided in main
CPU 11 in the present embodiment, it may be provided in activating
CPU 13.
Modification
[0117] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing exemplary functions of
the main CPU in a modification. Referring to FIG. 10, the functions
differ from those in FIG. 4 in that an additional load portion 57
is added and that main mode switching portion 53 is changed to a
main mode switching portion 53A. The other functions are the same
as the functions shown in FIG. 4 and a description thereof is not
repeated here.
[0118] After a snapshot is stored into RAM 21, recovery portion 55
outputs an activation completion signal to main mode switching
portion 53 and additional load portion 57.
[0119] Main mode switching portion 53A receiving the activation
completion signal from recovery portion 55 sets the operation mode
to the drive mode. Main mode switching portion 53A switches the
operation mode from the drive mode to the stop mode at a
predetermined timing. A predetermined timing at which main mode
switching portion 53 switches the operation mode from the drive
mode to the stop mode can be set as desired. When switching the
operation mode from the drive mode to the stop mode, main mode
switching portion 53A outputs a switch signal to activating CPU
13.
[0120] If a snapshot different from the default snapshot is stored
in RAM 21, after CPU 11 finishes a series of processing based on
the activation factor in response to input of an activation
completion signal from recovery portion 55, additional load portion
57 loads the remaining programs that are not included in the
snapshot stored in RAM 21 among a plurality of programs, into RAM
21, when an activation factor is detected in response to the
voltage of the activating terminal changing from LOW to HIGH. The
user thus allows MFP 100 to execute a process based on the program
not included in the snapshot. The voltage of the activating
terminal changes from LOW to HIGH when the user presses a key
except the maintenance key and the status check key among a
plurality of hard keys of operation unit 119 or when the user
performs the operation of touching the touch panel of operation
unit 119.
[0121] In the image forming apparatus in the modification, main CPU
11 loads the remaining one or more programs not included in the
snapshot stored in RAM 21 among a plurality of-programs, into RAM
21, after executing a process based on the activation factor.
Therefore, after the process based on the activation factor is
executed, a process other than the process based on the activation
factor can be executed.
[0122] Although MFP 100 has been described as an example of the
image forming apparatus in the foregoing embodiment, it is needless
say that the invention can be understood as an activation control
method that allows main CPU 11 to perform the main activation
control process shown in FIG. 8 and allows activating CPU 13 to
perform the sub activation control process shown in FIG. 9 and as a
main activation control program that allows main CPU 11 to perform
the main activation control process shown in FIG. 8 and a sub
activation control program that allows activating CPU 13 to perform
the sub activation control process shown in FIG. 9.
[0123] Although the present invention has been described and
illustrated in detail, it is clearly understood that the same is by
way of illustration and example only and is not to be taken by way
of limitation, the spirit and scope of the present invention being
limited only by the terms of the appended claims.
* * * * *